Upon reflect on the year gone by, a selection of remarkable in-depth pieces shines. These accounts delve into intricate topics ranging from political intrigue and historical revelations to deeply personal journeys.
A Puzzling Writer and the Soul of a Nation
A certain Russian novelist rose to fame in the post-Soviet era with scathing commentaries on autocratic rule. While several of his literary peers have encountered suppression or left the country, he still sell millions of books. It prompts a pertinent question: Has the author evolved into an defender for the establishment?
Survival and Collaboration in the Syrian Horrific Conflict
The account of Mustafa, who at 18 was told that his sole route to escape prison was to join the government military. After 14 long years, his former role as one of Assad's soldiers might now cost him his life.
The Fierce Feud Over Humanity's Earliest Beginnings
The unearthing of ancient remains in the Djurab desert in 2001 was proclaimed as fundamentally re-writing the history of our species. But, some scholars was persuaded. The subsequent intense argument has consumed the careers of researchers ever since.
The British Cult That Operated in Plain Sight
One woman was only a young girl when her family joined the Jesus Fellowship. As an adult, she helped uncover the appalling extent of abuse it had perpetrated.
The Leader's Curious Record on Human Rights
Numerous voters expected that the former human rights lawyer would restore the the nation's dedication to international law. However, the track record over the first year in office has been curiously mixed.
Challenging a Nation's Self-Image
A film tracking a remorseful fraudster as she records corrupt clients with covert recording raises complex questions: Is this person genuinely changed, and what are the filmmaker's own motives?
A Person Who Decontaminates Britain's Most Difficult Scenes
From crime scenes to whale blubber, an extreme cleaner has seen – and cleaned – it all. In their darkest hours, individuals depend on him to bring back peace.
Will an Famous Museum Weather an "Omni-Crisis"?
Plagued by colonial controversy, precarious funding and the exposure of an internal thief, the UK's number one cultural institution is in a major crisis. The challenge remains: Can it repair its legacy?
Beyond "Morning Sickness": The Torture of Severe Pregnancy
Called a severe form of pregnancy sickness and once labeled 'dangerous sickness' by the 19th century, this condition has long lacked an consistent treatment end – up until potentially now.
A Ghost of Radicalism in Modern Government
A militant fanatic and early advocate of bigotry, Meir Kahane died a political pariah 35 years ago. Today, his ideology shape the very highest echelons of government.
The English Gentleman With a Dishonest Secret
With his sharp intellect and flawless reputation, it's little wonder that high-net-worth clients entrusted him with their fortunes. Then they started to become suspicious.
A Small State That Became the Global Diplomatic Center
An extremely rich country has transformed into a major player on the world stage, working to mediate some of the most complex conflicts. Which factors are behind this ambitious project?
A Inside View at a President Preparing for International Summitry
Extremely disliked at home, the French leader relishes the international stage, where he positions himself as the leader best placed to deal with a certain former American leader. Seven years after their previous encounter, a journalist joined him as he readied himself for the fray.
Inside the Trial of a Tragic Case
How did the child of an aristocrat end up at the a major court with her companion, charged with killing their two-week-old infant?
The Dismantling of a Major Development Agency: Not Universal Regret
When actions were made to wind down a prominent development organization, many around the globe were surprised. But on the ground in a West African nation, this latest letdown was far from unforeseen.
The Unethical Mid-Century Study on Indian Mothers
When details about a scientific study in the 1960s came to light, there was immense outrage. But the full nature of what happened is still somewhat contested.
The "Genius" of the Attention Age
He's spent 24 hours in a vat of goo, two days buried alive – and given away huge amounts of cash to lucky participants. But are these stunts simply very savvy clickbait – or works of artistic brilliance?
Existence in a Nation Endangered by the Encroaching Ocean
With the ocean rising, much of this Pacific island nation's population is grappling with the prospect that their homeland may in the near future be submerged. The urgent issue is: Where are they going to relocate?
One Heartbreaking Story of Childhood Destitution
As I met Craig he was 13 and without a home. I still hoped his life could improve. That hope was tragically mistaken.
A International AI Race and a Key Move
In 2020, after living half his life in the United States, a leading AI scientist took a permanent move to his home country. Now, he may possess the answers to who prevails in the global technological rivalry.
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